Few things in fashion are more frustrating than dress sizing. You might be an 8 in one brand and a 12 in another, while international sizes add another layer of confusion. Understanding how sizing works empowers you to shop more confidently, whether buying in-store or online.
This guide breaks down Australian sizing, explains international conversions, and teaches you how to take accurate measurements so you can find dresses that truly fit.
Australian Standard Sizing
Australian sizing uses even numbers, typically ranging from 4 to 26 in women's clothing. However, "standard" is somewhat misleading because there's no legal requirement for brands to follow any particular sizing chart. This means a size 10 from one brand may differ significantly from another's size 10.
General Australian Size Guidelines
- Size 6: Bust 78-80cm, Waist 58-60cm, Hips 84-86cm
- Size 8: Bust 83cm, Waist 63cm, Hips 89cm
- Size 10: Bust 88cm, Waist 68cm, Hips 94cm
- Size 12: Bust 93cm, Waist 73cm, Hips 99cm
- Size 14: Bust 98cm, Waist 78cm, Hips 104cm
- Size 16: Bust 103cm, Waist 83cm, Hips 109cm
- Size 18: Bust 110cm, Waist 90cm, Hips 116cm
These are approximate guidelines. Always check the specific brand's size chart before purchasing, especially when shopping online.
International Size Conversions
When buying dresses from international retailers, you'll encounter different sizing systems. Here's how Australian sizes generally convert:
Australian to US Sizes
US sizes are typically four numbers lower than Australian sizes:
- AU 6 = US 2
- AU 8 = US 4
- AU 10 = US 6
- AU 12 = US 8
- AU 14 = US 10
- AU 16 = US 12
Australian to UK Sizes
UK sizes are typically two numbers lower than Australian sizes:
- AU 6 = UK 4
- AU 8 = UK 6
- AU 10 = UK 8
- AU 12 = UK 10
- AU 14 = UK 12
- AU 16 = UK 14
Australian to EU Sizes
European sizes use a completely different numbering system:
- AU 6 = EU 32
- AU 8 = EU 34
- AU 10 = EU 36
- AU 12 = EU 38
- AU 14 = EU 40
- AU 16 = EU 42
Size conversions are approximations. Your measurements compared to the brand's size chart are always more reliable than conversion formulas.
How to Take Accurate Measurements
Knowing your measurements is the most reliable way to find well-fitting dresses, regardless of what number appears on the label.
What You'll Need
- A flexible measuring tape (fabric, not metal)
- A mirror or someone to help
- Well-fitting undergarments similar to what you'd wear with a dress
- A notepad to record measurements
Bust Measurement
Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, usually across the nipple line. Keep the tape level and snug but not tight. You should be able to breathe normally.
Waist Measurement
Measure around your natural waistline, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso. This is usually about two to three centimetres above your belly button. Don't hold your breath or suck in your stomach.
Hip Measurement
Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks, typically about 20cm below your waist. Keep your feet together and the tape level.
Other Useful Measurements
For a complete fitting picture, also consider measuring:
- High hip: Around your hip bones, about 10cm below your waist
- Torso length: From the top of your shoulder to your natural waist
- Arm length: From shoulder to wrist
Take measurements while standing relaxed in front of a mirror. Measure twice to ensure accuracy, and remeasure every few months as your body may change.
Understanding Sizing Variations
Several factors contribute to sizing inconsistency across brands:
Vanity Sizing
Many brands intentionally cut their clothes larger than standard measurements, allowing customers to fit into smaller size numbers. This psychological trick varies significantly between brands, particularly between budget and premium labels.
Target Demographics
Brands cut their sizes based on their target customer. A brand targeting younger women might cut differently than one targeting mature women, even at the same size number.
Manufacturing Variations
Even within the same brand and size, individual garments may vary slightly due to manufacturing tolerances. This is why trying on or checking measurements matters even when you know your size in a brand.
Tips for Online Dress Shopping
Since you can't try on dresses when shopping online, these strategies help ensure a good fit:
- Check the size chart: Every reputable online retailer provides measurements for each size. Compare your measurements to these charts, not to your usual size.
- Read reviews: Look for comments about sizing. Phrases like "runs small" or "true to size" help calibrate your choice.
- Look for fit descriptions: Some retailers describe whether items run large, small, or true to size.
- Check the return policy: Only buy from retailers offering free returns or exchanges if the fit isn't right.
- When in doubt, size up: It's easier to alter a dress that's slightly too big than one that's too small.
When Measurements Fall Between Sizes
If your measurements suggest you're between sizes, consider:
- For fitted dresses: Size up to ensure comfort and avoid straining seams.
- For stretchy fabrics: Either size may work; consider the look you prefer.
- For structured fabrics: Definitely size up; non-stretch fabrics are unforgiving.
- Where the discrepancy lies: If your bust is a 12 but hips are a 10, consider what the dress prioritises. A-line dresses can size for the bust since they don't cling to hips.
Final Thoughts
Size is just a number, and that number varies wildly across brands and countries. Focus on measurements rather than labels, and remember that the right dress is one that fits your body comfortably, not one with a particular number on the tag.
For more guidance on finding dresses that flatter your body, check out our beginner's guide.